Looking for Family-Friendly Things to Do in Alamance County? Whether you’re planning a weekend outing, trying to keep the kids entertained after school, or exploring new spots close to home, this area is full of opportunities for fun, connection, and outdoor adventure. From playgrounds and scenic parks to lakes, trails, and hands-on attractions, Alamance County offers something for families of all ages. This guide highlights the best places to play, explore, and make lasting memories together—without having to travel far.
Top Family Attraction in Alamance County
Burlington City Park
If there’s one place that defines family fun in Alamance County, it’s Burlington City Park. This longtime local favorite combines classic amusement rides, playgrounds, open green space, and one of the most historic carousels in the country into one unforgettable destination for families.
Spanning more than 75 acres, the park has been entertaining generations of families with attractions that feel both nostalgic and timeless. The biggest highlight is the beautifully restored Dentzel Menagerie Carousel, originally built between 1906 and 1910 and now listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It’s one of only a handful of surviving Dentzel carousels left in the world.
Whether you’re planning a full family outing or just a quick afternoon trip, there’s plenty to explore throughout the park.
- The historic Dentzel Carousel with hand-carved wooden animals
- A beloved miniature train ride that loops through the park
- Amusement rides for younger children and families
- A large playground and splash pad for warm-weather fun
- Walking trails, picnic shelters, and open green space
- An amphitheater and seasonal events like the annual Carousel Festival
One of the things families love most is how easy the park feels. Kids can bounce between rides, playgrounds, and splash areas while parents relax under shaded picnic spots or enjoy a walk around the grounds.
Hours
- Tuesday – Saturday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Sunday: 1:00 PM – 7:00 PM
- Hours may vary seasonally
Location
1388 Main Street
Burlington, NC 27215
Best Parks for Families in Alamance County
Cedarock Park
If your family is looking for a true outdoor adventure in Alamance County, Cedarock Park is hard to beat. Located just outside Burlington, this massive nature park offers a mix of history, scenery, and hands-on outdoor fun that makes it feel more like a day trip than a quick park visit.
Spanning over 500 acres, Cedarock Park has been a local favorite since the 1970s, known for its rolling landscape, wooded trails, and beautiful views along Rock Creek.
You’ll find:
- Miles of hiking and equestrian trails (about 4 miles of hiking trails and 6 miles for horseback riding)
- A historic farm with self-guided tours that give a glimpse into 1800s farm life
- Disc golf courses and open fields for games
- A scenic old mill dam (often called a waterfall) along Rock Creek
- Fishing areas, picnic shelters, and camping options
- Plenty of space to explore, roam, and unplug
One of the standout features is how much variety the park offers—you can hike a trail, visit the farm animals, have a picnic, and still feel like you’ve only scratched the surface. It’s the kind of place where families can spend hours (or a whole day) without getting bored.
Hours
- November – March: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- April: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- May – August: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- September – October: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Location
4242 R. Dean Coleman Road
Burlington, NC 27215
Graham Regional Park
If you’re looking for a modern, family-friendly park in Alamance County, Graham Regional Park should be at the top of your list. Located just outside Graham in Haw River, this park has quickly become a favorite thanks to its thoughtful design and wide range of activities for all ages.
Originally opened on April 12, 2017, the park’s first phase introduced 18 acres of space built with families in mind. Today, it offers a little bit of everything—whether your kids want to climb, swing, explore, or just run free.
- A youth challenge course and zipline (always a hit with adventurous kids)
- A 0.3-mile paved, accessible trail—perfect for strollers, scooters, and easy walks
- A large playground area with swings, slides, and climbing features
- Unique touches like climbing boulders, outdoor fitness equipment, and a Little Free Library
- Plenty of open green space for games, picnics, or just relaxing
Hours
- March – October: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- November – February: 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Location
1575 North Jim Minor Road
Haw River, NC 27258
Willowbrook Park Arboretum
If your family is looking for a peaceful, scenic park in Burlington, Willowbrook Park Arboretum offers a completely different vibe from your typical playground. This beautifully designed 17-acre space blends nature, education, and relaxation into one of the most unique parks in Alamance County.
The Arboretum features a wide, paved walking path that winds through gardens, along a creek, and past a variety of plant collections—including roses, hydrangeas, azaleas, and native species. It’s the kind of place where you can take a slow walk, let kids explore, and actually enjoy the surroundings instead of rushing from one activity to the next.
- A paved walking trail perfect for strollers, scooters, and easy family walks
- Multiple garden collections and natural areas to explore
- A unique accessible treehouse—a standout feature kids love
- The Veterans Overlook, offering scenic views across the park
- A Commons Building with restrooms and picnic areas
- Open green space for relaxing, playing, or enjoying a quiet afternoon
One of the most special things about this park is how it combines play, nature, and learning. Kids can climb, explore, and wander while also being surrounded by beautiful landscaping and wildlife habitats. It’s calm without being boring—which is a tough balance, but this place nails it.
Hours
- Open daily: Sunrise to sunset
Location
315 W. Willowbrook Drive
Burlington, NC 27215
Joe C. Davidson Park
f your family enjoys staying active outdoors, Joe C. Davidson Park is one of the best all-around recreation parks in Burlington. Known for its large sports complexes and family-friendly atmosphere, this park offers a great mix of organized recreation and casual outdoor fun.
Located on Rural Retreat Road, the park is especially popular for soccer and baseball, but there’s plenty here for families who simply want to walk, play, or relax outside. The park’s spacious layout and variety of amenities make it easy to spend a full afternoon exploring.
- Multiple soccer and baseball fields used for local leagues and tournaments
- A handicapped-accessible playground designed for inclusive play
- A 0.75-mile walking track and a smaller wooded nature trail for easy family walks
- Tennis and pickleball courts for recreational play
- A large Kiwanis Club picnic shelter available for gatherings and events
One of the standout features is how versatile the park feels. Families can watch a soccer game, let younger kids enjoy the playground, and still have plenty of room to walk or unwind outdoors.
Hours
- Daily: 6:00 AM – 8:30 PM
Location
3715 Rural Retreat Road
Burlington, NC 27215
Bill Cooke Park
If you’re looking for a well-rounded family park in Graham, Bill Cooke Park is one of the best all-around options in Alamance County. This spacious community park combines sports facilities, walking trails, playgrounds, and open green space into one easy, family-friendly destination.
Located just off Townbranch Road in Graham, the park is popular with everyone from walkers and dog owners to families with young kids and local sports teams. It’s the kind of place where you can spend an hour—or an entire afternoon—without running out of things to do.
- A 0.9-mile paved accessible walking trail that’s great for strollers, bikes, and easy family walks
- A smaller nature trail for a more scenic outdoor experience
- Three lighted baseball fields and six tennis courts for sports and recreation
- A playground, basketball court, and picnic shelters perfect for family outings
- A fenced dog park that makes it easy to bring the whole family—including pets
One of the standout features is how accessible and easy the park feels. Whether your family wants an active day outdoors or just a peaceful place to walk and relax, Bill Cooke Park makes it simple.
Hours
- Daily: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Location
1010 Townbranch Road
Graham, NC 27253
Beth Schmidt Park
If you’re searching for one of the most family-friendly parks in Alamance County, Beth Schmidt Park in Elon is an easy favorite. This spacious community park blends playground fun, walking trails, nature, and recreation into one relaxing destination that works for kids, parents, and even pets.
One of the park’s biggest highlights is its massive playground area, which was designed with accessibility in mind. The playground features 72 components, with most accessible for children with special needs—making it one of the most inclusive play spaces in the region.
The park offers much more than just a playground, giving families plenty of ways to spend a full afternoon outdoors.
- A large inclusive playground designed for children of all abilities
- Approximately one mile of walking and jogging trails through wooded areas
- A 9-hole disc golf practice course perfect for beginners and families
- A fenced K-9 Corner dog park with benches and water stations
- Picnic shelters, gazebos, gardens, and open green space for relaxing
Another unique feature families love is the StoryWalk trail, where pages from children’s books are displayed along the walking path—turning a simple stroll into an interactive reading adventure for younger kids.
Hours
- Open daily from dawn to dusk
Location
2150 Elon Park Drive
Elon, NC 27244
Trails, Lakes & Outdoor Adventures
Haw River Trail
f your family loves the outdoors, the Haw River Trail is one of the most unique experiences in Alamance County. Stretching alongside the Haw River through multiple communities, this growing trail system combines hiking, biking, paddling, wildlife viewing, and scenic river access all into one incredible outdoor destination.
The Haw River Trail was created to connect people with one of Alamance County’s most important natural resources—the Haw River itself. When completed, the full corridor is planned to stretch nearly 80 miles from Haw River State Park all the way to Jordan Lake.
What makes the trail especially family-friendly is the variety of access points and experiences available throughout the county. Some sections are perfect for easy walks with kids, while others offer kayaking, fishing, and longer hiking adventures.
- Walking and biking trails with scenic river views
- Paddle trail access points for kayaking and canoeing
- Wildlife viewing and peaceful natural areas
- Easy family-friendly sections near parks like Saxapahaw Island Park
- Connections to portions of North Carolina’s Mountains-to-Sea Trail
One of the standout features of the Haw River Trail is how different every section feels. Families can enjoy a quiet riverside walk in Glencoe, explore the artsy atmosphere of Saxapahaw, or paddle calm stretches of the river for a full outdoor adventure. The trail system continues to expand, with Alamance County recently adding hundreds of acres to preserve and grow future trail access.
Hours
- Open daily
- Individual trail access areas and parks may have varying hours
Location
3916 R Dean Coleman Rd
Burlington, NC 27215
Lake Cammack Park & Marina
If your family loves spending time outdoors, Lake Cammack Park & Marina is one of the best places in Alamance County for a full day of adventure and relaxation. Located just north of Burlington, this scenic lake destination combines boating, fishing, hiking, and family recreation all in one peaceful setting.
Covering more than 800 acres with over 50 miles of shoreline, the lake is a favorite local escape for paddlers, anglers, hikers, and nature lovers alike. Deer, birds, and even bald eagles are often spotted around the water, giving the area a quiet, natural feel that’s hard to beat.
Whether you’re planning a quick afternoon trip or an all-day outing, there’s plenty here for families to enjoy.
- Boat ramps and marina access for boating, kayaking, and paddleboarding
- Bank fishing and an accessible fishing pier for anglers of all experience levels
- A 2-mile hiking trail with scenic lake views
- A playground and picnic areas for families with younger kids
- Open green space perfect for relaxing or spending time outdoors
- Shelter and building rentals available for gatherings and events
One of the standout features is the variety of activities available in one place. Families can fish in the morning, hike in the afternoon, and enjoy a picnic by the water without ever needing to leave the park.
Hours
- April – August: 6:30 AM – 8:00 PM
- Seasonal hours vary throughout the year
- Closed every Wednesday & Thursday
Location
4790 Union Ridge Road
Burlington, NC 27217
Graham-Mebane Lake
If your family enjoys spending time on the water, Graham-Mebane Lake is one of the best outdoor recreation spots in Alamance County. Tucked between Graham and Mebane, this scenic lake offers a peaceful escape with plenty of space for boating, fishing, paddling, and relaxing by the water.
Originally known as Quaker Lake, the reservoir has become a favorite destination for both casual family outings and serious outdoor enthusiasts. The lake is especially popular during warmer months when families come out to kayak, fish, and enjoy the quiet scenery.
There’s a little something for everyone here, whether you want an active day outdoors or a slower-paced afternoon near the water.
- Fishing areas and bank fishing access with piers and shoreline spots
- A seven-lane boat ramp and marina area for boating and water sports
- Kayak and paddle vessel rentals available seasonally
- Picnic areas and open space for relaxing by the lake
- Family-friendly programs and fishing events held throughout the year
One of the standout features is how calm and family-oriented the atmosphere feels. It’s less crowded than larger lakes, making it a great place for kids to experience kayaking, fishing, or boating for the first time.
Hours
- Daily: 6:30 AM – 8:00 PM
Location
3218 Bason Road
Mebane, NC 27302
Family-Friendly Places Beyond Parks
Alamance Crossing
If your family needs a break from playgrounds and wants something a little different, Alamance Crossing is the perfect go-to spot. Located in Burlington, this open-air shopping center blends shopping, dining, and entertainment into one easy, walkable destination.
Opened in 2007, Alamance Crossing has grown into one of the largest retail hubs in the area, featuring dozens of stores, restaurants, and entertainment options all in one place. It’s designed like a lifestyle center, meaning you can stroll from place to place without the feel of a traditional indoor mall—making it surprisingly family-friendly.
- A wide mix of shops and major retailers like Belk, Dillard’s, and more
- Family-friendly restaurants and casual dining options
- A movie theater (Carousel Cinemas) for an easy night out
- Plenty of space to walk, explore, and unwind between stops
This is one of those places where you can grab dinner, catch a movie, and let the kids stretch their legs—all without needing to drive anywhere else.
Location
1080 Piper Lane
Burlington, NC 27215
Children’s Museum of Alamance County
If you need a go-to indoor activity for kids in Alamance County, the Children’s Museum of Alamance County is a must-visit. Located in downtown Graham, this interactive space is designed for hands-on learning—where kids can explore, imagine, and play all at the same time.
The museum is built around one simple idea: kids learn best through experience. Every exhibit encourages creativity, problem-solving, and real-world role play, all in a fun and low-pressure environment. Inside, you’ll find a variety of themed play areas that keep younger kids especially engaged.
- Interactive exhibits like a market, doctor’s office, and building zones
- A climbing structure and imaginative play spaces
- Hands-on areas focused on creativity, science, and everyday life skills
- A layout that’s easy to navigate for parents with younger children
This space is especially popular with toddlers and elementary-aged kids, giving them a safe place to explore while learning without even realizing it. The museum also hosts special events and family programs throughout the year, adding even more reasons to come back again and again.
Hours
- Tuesday – Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Thursday – Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sunday & Monday: Closed
Location
217 South Main Street
Graham, NC 27253
Buffaloe Lanes
If you’re looking for a classic family-friendly activity in Alamance County, Buffaloe Lanes in Mebane is a go-to spot for all ages. Whether you’re planning a casual outing, a birthday party, or just need something fun to do indoors, this local bowling center makes it easy.
Located in downtown Mebane, this 18-lane bowling center has built a reputation as a welcoming, family-focused space where anyone—from beginners to experienced bowlers—can jump in and have a good time.
Inside, it’s more than just bowling—it’s a full entertainment experience.
- 18 bowling lanes with options like bumpers for younger kids
- A large arcade area with games for all ages
- Cosmic bowling nights with lights and music for extra fun
- Birthday party packages and group events that make planning easy
- An on-site snack bar/restaurant so you can stay and play longer
One of the best things about Buffaloe Lanes is how approachable it is—you don’t need to be “good” at bowling to enjoy it. It’s all about having fun, laughing a little, and maybe getting a strike or two along the way.
Hours
- Monday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Tuesday: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Wednesday – Friday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
(Hours can vary due to leagues and events—calling ahead is a good idea.)
Location
103 South 5th Street
Mebane, NC 27302
Broadway’s Fun Center
If your family is looking for a fun indoor activity in Burlington, Broadway’s Family Fun Center is a go-to spot for classic arcade-style entertainment. It’s the kind of place where kids (and honestly, adults too) can spend hours playing games, collecting tickets, and chasing prizes.
This local arcade is packed with a wide variety of games—from modern favorites to nostalgic classics—making it a great option for all ages. Inside, you’ll find a lively, colorful environment that’s perfect for casual family outings, rainy days, or weekend fun.
- 50+ arcade games including racing, basketball, skee-ball, and ticket games
- Prize redemption area where kids can trade tickets for rewards
- Regular deals like half-price game days during the week
- Birthday party packages with private rooms and food options
One of the biggest highlights is how easy it is to plan a visit—whether you’re just dropping in for an hour of fun or hosting a full birthday party, everything is designed to be simple and family-friendly.
Hours
- Open daily (hours may vary—check ahead before visiting)
Location
2357 Corporation Pkwy
Burlington, NC 27215
At the end of the day, the best family outings aren’t about going far. They’re about spending quality time together, exploring new places, and creating moments your kids will remember. Alamance County makes that easy with its mix of parks, outdoor spaces, and local attractions that are both accessible and affordable. Whether you’re planning a full day of adventure or just looking for a quick place to unwind, there’s always something nearby worth checking out. So next time you’re wondering how to spend your day, why not start with these Family-Friendly Things to Do in Alamance County.
